ES2842930T3 - Color selection and coordination system - Google Patents

Abstract

A computerized method for assisting a user with color selection through selection operations performed on a computer controlled screen (404) comprising the steps of: presenting the user with a first display screen on said computer controlled screen ( 404), said first display screen providing a first display of a plurality of color ranges (3014, 2015, 3016, 3017, 3018, 3019, 3020, 3021); respond to the user's selection of a first of said color ranges on said first screen by providing the user with a second screen on said computer controlled screen comprising a plurality of colors in a selected sub-range (3031) within the first range of colors, said second screen further provides: (a) a first link (3034) that allows the user to display a sub-range of colors within a second of said plurality of color ranges, (b) a second link (3026) that allows the user to user cause the generation of a third screen (3032) comprising a plurality of shades of white associated with said first color gamut, and (c) a third link (3036) to a second display screen that allows fine adjustment of a first color in the first subgroup after user selection of that color; respond to the user's selection of said second link (3026) to present to the user the third screen comprising the plurality of said shades of white (3032), each shade of white appears in a respective one of a plurality of screen regions , each of said screen regions comprising a link to select the particular shade of white associated with that respective screen region; responding to the user's selection of said third link (3036) by presenting the user with the second display screen in which the user can activate at least one fine-tuning operation with respect to the first color; displaying the first color and at least one selected shade of white from the plurality of said shades of white with a third display screen on said computer controlled screen, the third display screen shows a room with the first color displayed on a first surface of the room and the at least one selected shade of white in a second surface of the room, the first surface and the second surface are selected by the user from at least one of a wall, a floor, a finish and a door.

Description

DESCRIPTION

Color selection and coordination system

Field of the invention

Various embodiments of the invention relate to facilitating the selection of harmonious colors. More particularly, at least one embodiment of the invention relates to a system and method for assisting consumers in the selection of complementary paint colors.

Description of Related Art

Consumers typically start a new paint project out of a desire for change. Typically this is due to wanting a new look, being tired of the old look, boredom, seeing an interior elsewhere (for example, a tour of a model home, a friend's house, a magazine photo, etc. ) to replicate and / or want to combine a new piece of furniture, fabric, window treatment, etc. In other cases, a new event or occurrence (for example, a new baby, children growing or moving, family members visiting, water damage from roof leaks / floods, etc.) may motivate the consumer to paint a room. or rooms.

The house painting process typically begins with color selection and this is typically the most emotional part of the process. Many consumers worry about making a mistake in the color selection process and then having to live with it or do it again.

A painting project involves the selection of one or more colors, which the consumer typically wants to complement each other, the floor, and / or the furniture. A consumer may start a painting project with one color in mind, or try to match furniture or another decorative item, or just be looking for a new color. Regardless of how they start out, most consumers want to achieve a decorated look when finished. Typically, they look to brands, retailers, printed material, and even computer software to help them.

However, because most paint marketing programs often do not encourage bold or personal color selection, the vast majority of consumers are reluctant to try new colors. Instead, they adhere to "white and neutral" standards, which while minimizing the danger of making a mistake, also limit their emotional attachment to the process and the brand.

The document "New tools to help consumers choose color", 20030714, July 14, 2003 (2003-07-14), pages 1-3, XP002322389, describes the so-called "Home Depot Color Solutions Center", that is , a paint sample sky wall, offering collections of paint colors for a new home project. The document also describes a kiosk that has a computer whose software allows the consumer to browse color collections, print a list of supplies and play with color combinations in virtual rooms, to get an idea of what particular colors would look like in an entire room. .

The document "Self Service kiosknews", by Barnett S, SIEMENS. POWER QUALITY, KATALOG SR 10.1.1, April 1, 2003 (2003-04-01), pages 1-2, XP002322388, also describes the so-called "Home Depot Color Solution Center "which makes use of a kiosk as part of said Color Solution Center.

Summary

The present invention provides a computerized method for assisting a user with color selection through selection operations that are performed on a computer controlled display comprising the steps listed in claim 1.

The dependent claims describe advantageous ways of carrying out this method.

Brief description of the drawings

Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of the front side of the color coordinating kiosk cabinet according to one aspect.

Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of the rear side of the color coordinating kiosk and how a first horizontal surface and a computer can be mounted in the cabinet of the kiosk.

Figure 3 illustrates how a second horizontal support surface can be mounted within the color coordinating kiosk cabinet.

Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of the back of the color coordinating kiosk showing other features of the kiosk.

Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of the front side of the color coordinating kiosk showing how a printer can be integrated as part of the kiosk.

Figure 6 illustrates how the printer can be secured to the color coordination kiosk to prevent theft.

Figure 7 illustrates a block diagram of a paint color selection and coordination system. Figure 8 illustrates one embodiment of a registration and / or login system.

Figure 9 illustrates various components and navigation paths that a user can select once the user has logged in or is otherwise allowed to enter the paint selection and coordination system.

Figure 10 illustrates the path or path that can be followed in selecting or editing colors.

Figure 11 illustrates various options that may be available to a user when they choose to work on an active project.

Figure 12 is a block diagram illustrating the processing of various options in Figure 11.

Figure 13 is a block diagram of a paint selection system planning feature. Figures 14 through 17 are flow charts illustrating various user tutorial options that may be provided by the paint selection and coordination system.

Figure 18 illustrates a product choice according to a paint selection and coordination system implementation.

Figure 19 illustrates a block diagram of a distributed system in which multiple in-store kiosks and remote computers can access the same paint color selection and coordination system.

Figure 20 illustrates a method of using the distributed paint color selection and coordination system.

Figure 21 illustrates a system that can be implemented over the Internet to allow a user to access the paint color selection and coordination system.

Figures 22A through F are a block diagram for a color selection and coordination application that can be implemented at a kiosk in the store.

Figures 23A through E are a block diagram illustrating details of the printing process of block 2288, in Figure 22.

Figures 24A through L are a block diagram illustrating a network-based color selection and coordination application.

Figures 25A through D are a block diagram illustrating the details of selecting and fine-tuning a paint color in a network-based coordination application.

Figures 26 through 27 illustrate the first and second initial color selection screens;

Figures 28 through 29 illustrate the respective first and second screens that are displayed after a user has scanned a paint sample to detect its color.

Figure 30 illustrates an initial screen of a scan paint color selection function.

Figure 31 illustrates a second screen of the scan function that can be entered from the screen of Figure 31.

Figure 33 illustrates an on-screen display when associated targets are selected on either screen in Figure 31 or Figure 32.

Figure 34 illustrates a fourth screen of the browse selection feature that appears when the user clicks on one of the associated white icons illustrated in Figure 33.

Figure 35 illustrates a screen that is designed as part of the scan function, for example when "neutral / black" is selected on the screen of Figure 30.

Figures 36, 42, and 37 illustrate additional screens that relate to neutral color scanning.

Figure 38 illustrates a screen that can be entered when a "target" link is selected on the screen of Figure 30.

Figure 39 illustrates a screen that provides a fine-tuning feature of a selected color, for example, through screens 31 through 33.

Figure 41 illustrates a screen that makes it easy to fine-tune neutral colors.

Figure 40 illustrates the appearance of the screen of Figure 39 when a user has selected the brightest color available.

Figure 43 illustrates a display screen that facilitates fine-tuning of selected white colors, for example, using the screen of Figure 38.

Figures 44 through 49 illustrate screens for implementing preferred functionality so that a user can select a color and then build their own color palette.

Figures 50 through 55 represent screens of an illustrative embodiment that provide a sequence of inspirational ideas to a user.

Figure 56 illustrates a color selection table that may be used, for example, in a color selection scanning method.

Figure 57 is a schematic representation of a four color paint selection palette.

Figures 58 through 63 are respective arc cross sections of the 3-D color space useful for illustrating a method for determining the first and second colors that match the third and fourth colors already preselected by a user.

Detailed description

In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, one skilled in the art will recognize that the invention can be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, well-known methods, procedures, and / or components have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the invention.

In the following description, certain terminology is used to describe certain features of one or more embodiments of the invention. For example, "kiosk" includes any type of device, computer, processing unit, and so on. The term "color coordination" refers to any system, method, data structure or model, software and / or device that provides a set of colors that is in harmony with, complement, and / or is aesthetically pleasing when combined with a starting color. The terms "start color" and "core color" are used interchangeably to refer to any color that can be selected or provided by a user to coordinate. The term "hue" refers to the angle of the color when assigned to the color space; pitch ranges from 0 to 360 degrees. The term "triad" refers to a color approximately 120 degrees from the core color (hue). The terms "complement" or "complementary", as complementary colors, refer to a color approximately 180 degrees from the color of the core, so that the complement plus the core equals white. The term "analogous" color refers to a color with a slightly different hue angle but that belongs to the same general color area in the color space. The term "hue" is a relative term that means a darker color but otherwise a similar hue and relative chroma. The term "tint" is a relative term that means a lighter color but otherwise a similar hue and relative chroma. The term "color family" refers to colors within a hue range of approximately 4 to 8 degrees. The term "accent", in paint, refers to a color used to add an interesting touch to a room, but not used uniformly throughout the room. An accent color can be used throughout the room through other decorative elements such as fabrics, etc. Outdoors, doors are often treated as accents. The term "finish," in paint, includes baseboards, windows, roof trim, and siding. A finish color often contrasts with a core color in the lightness and / or hue value. The term "depth" is another term for "clarity." The term "warm", as a warm color or triad, refers to colors that can be associated with fire, such as reds, oranges, and yellows. The term "cold", as a cold color or triad, refers to colors that can be associated with water, such as blues and greens. Generally, colors that are greener than yellow are cool (and vice versa) and colors that are more red than blue are warm (and vice versa).

Various aspects provide a novel system to assist buyers in selecting and coordinating paint colors for various types of painting projects. One aspect of the present invention provides an interactive paint selection system and expert coordinator that provides consumers with a new and unique way to purchase and select paint and stain products. The interactive paint selection system and expert coordinator aim to encourage and enable consumers to unleash their creative powers with confidence with products and services that inspire and engage them in home improvement projects.

Another aspect provides a distributed paint selection and coordination system that allows users to remotely access an automatic and interactive paint coordinator / advisor, set up a project and select the desired colors. A user can access the previously saved project from a kiosk in the store with a very similar graphical user interface. The distributed system allows software and data updates to the store kiosks, as well as the remote user application.

An interactive system presents a unique opportunity to establish a "one-to-one" relationship with customers. However, there are some difficulties unique to the paint industry that make developing an interactive marketing effort challenging. Most importantly, paint is highly dependent on color. Consumers are sophisticated enough to know that they cannot trust the color of a display, which raises the question of why use a "display" to choose colors. Color discrepancies should be minimized and the final color choice should be made by traditional means.

Most consumers are uncomfortable choosing colors. They are aware that the colors they choose are a reflection of themselves. They are afraid of making mistakes that they pass on to their friends and neighbors that they have bad taste.

Beyond this fear, consumers yearn to express themselves with creativity and confidence. Having a tool that calms your fears, inspires creative expression, and checks color options is considered an extremely powerful potential feature of the show.

One aspect provides a paint selection kiosk that is designed to house an apparatus that is configured to assist the consumer in selecting complementary colors. Another aspect provides a navigation system that allows the user to select a paint color, have a plurality of complementary color combinations, and preview the different complementary color combinations in a sample room or house.

Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of the front side of the paint selection kiosk cabinet 100 in accordance with one aspect. The paint selection and coordination kiosk 100 includes a cabinet frame 102, which may be made of metal, wood, and / or other materials, on which a front panel 104, side panels 106 and 108, a rear panel 110, and a top cover 112 are fastened with fasteners.

According to one aspect, the inclined portions L 05 can be engaged along the vertical edges of the front panel 104. The front panel 104 can also include a first opening 116 to allow viewing of a display screen that can be mounted within the cabinet 100. Additionally, front panel 104 may include a second aperture for containing a color sensing device 118. Front panel 104 may also include one or more apertures 119 behind which one or more loudspeakers may be mounted.

The front of the paint sorting and coordinating kiosk 100 may also include a horizontal or semi-horizontal surface 120 with an opening 122 from which printer paper can be collected. Below horizontal surface 120, a pair of vertically opening doors 124 enclose a compartment area. Doors can be hung from cabinet frame 102.

Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of the rear side of the paint selection and coordination kiosk 100. The kiosk frame 102 may define a plurality of spaces and include a plurality of rails 202, 204, 206. One or more of these rails 202, 204 and 206 can serve to support one or more horizontal surfaces. For example, a first horizontal surface 208 may be supported by and / or attached to a lower rail 202. The kiosk cabinet frame 102 may also have side panels 210 that attach to a lower portion of the cabinet frame 102. The members Support members 212 may be attached to lower side panel 210 by one or more perpendicularly supported brackets or support members 214. Support members 212 can serve to support cabinet 100 on a plurality of legs or wheels 216. Support legs or wheels 216 they may include a leveling or height adjustment mechanism such as a threaded screw and nut.

According to one embodiment of the invention, a processing unit (eg, a computer) 220 may be mounted within the kiosk on top of the horizontal surface 208. The processing unit 220 may be attached to the horizontal surface 208 or to the cabinet frame 102.

Figure 3 illustrates how a second horizontal support surface 302 can be supported by or coupled to horizontal rails 204. The horizontal surface 302 can serve to support one or more devices. For example, in one implementation, a power supply 304, speakers 306, and a color detection device or spectrophotometer 308 can be mounted and / or attached to the horizontal surface 302. Several different brackets or clips can be used to secure the speakers 306, the color detection device 308 and the power supply device 304.

Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of the rear side of the kiosk 100 showing other features of the kiosk. A third horizontal surface 402 can be mounted and / or attached to the horizontal rails 206 of the cabinet frame 102. A display device (eg, monitor and / or screen) 404 can be mounted on the third horizontal surface 402 so that the surface The display screen of the device 404 is visible through an opening 116 in the front panel 104 of the kiosk 100.

A keyboard holder and / or mouse holder 406 can be mounted on the side panel 210 in the lower portion of the cabinet frame 202. A keyboard or mouse stored in the holder 406 can be accessed through an opening 408 in the front. of the paint selection kiosk. Opening 408 can be accessed by opening one of the lower doors 124 of kiosk 100.

Figure 5 illustrates a front perspective view of the kiosk 100 showing how a printer 502 can be integrated as part of the kiosk 100. The printer 502 can be mounted on a dolly or cart 504 so that it can be easily moved in and out of the kiosk compartment. kiosk 500. The printer platform 504 may also include a finish 506 along the lower front of the printer platform or carriage 504 to match the finish 508 along the bottom edge of the kiosk cabinet 100. Printer 506 can be communicatively coupled to computer or processing unit 220 in such a way as to allow removal of printer 502. In one implementation of the invention, printer 502 can be coupled to power supply 304 and / or computer 220 via cables long enough to allow removal of printer 502 and carriage 504 from bay 500.

Figure 6 illustrates how the printer 502 can be secured to the kiosk 100 to prevent theft. For example, an access box 602 can be attached to the frame 102 or side panel 210 of the kiosk 100. A cable 604 can be attached to the access box 602 at one end and a fastener 606 at an opposite end. The fixing apparatus 606 serves to secure the printer 502 to the cabinet of the kiosk. Fixing apparatus 606 may include a color calibration chip to calibrate color spectra.

The kiosk illustrated in Figures 1 through 6 can be configured to assist a person in selecting a starting color (eg, the starting or desired paint color) as well as providing a complementary, harmonious and / or aesthetically pleasing match. In one implementation, such a kiosk can serve as a paint color selector and coordinator for painting projects such as painting interior areas (eg, rooms, etc.) or exteriors of houses.

In one implementation of the invention, a user can navigate through various graphical user interfaces, screens, and / or modules that advise and suggest to the user which colors are most likely to provide an attractive scheme or combination.

The 308 color sensor or spectrophotometer allows the user to use a sample or swatch of the desired color and enter it into the color selection and coordination system. Color sensor 308 can be one of several color sensing devices that is attached to the color selection and coordination system and provides information about the desired color swatch to the system. The speaker (s) 306 may provide the user with audio tracks or information such as, for example, audio / video clips about painting and other decorating ideas, and training and product information.

Printer 502 may provide the user with prints of selected colors and / or color schemes or combinations. An input device, such as a touch screen, pointing device, and / or voice-activated input system, can be used to allow a user to navigate the color selection and coordination process and provide inputs to the system.

Generally, a color matching and selection system can provide the user with color matching and coordinating options. Consumers can provide a starting color in a number of ways. For example, by using a spectrophotometer, a customer can "scan" the color of an item in their home, such as tiles, fabrics, curtains, pillows, and so on. Based on the starting color, a system can select a close match from a library of colors, or it can formulate a custom color to match the scanned item. In addition, the color coordination system may recommend other colors, or color combinations, that coordinate, are harmonious or aesthetically pleasing or complementary to the starting color. The customer is provided with a "palette" that can be adjusted according to how they want the original start color to be used (for example, accent color versus main color versus finish color). Potentially, the palettes can be adjusted according to the user's region, room size, room function, and style preferences.

Another way to use the system is to simply choose a color, from a color chart, for example, and find out what other colors go with it. The user can specify a starting color visually or enter a color code and the expert color coordinator then recommends color combinations. The lightness and gray levels of individual color combinations can be adjusted.

The system can also provide a visualization tool that allows consumers to see how their colors look in a simulated environment. The system can work in a way that allows users to upload their own photos and adjust them based on the user's color selections. In addition, a user can select a similar room or exterior from a collection of pre-formatted exteriors or rooms. The wall, finish, accents, etc., of the selected room or exterior is colored with a color combination selected from the recommended color combinations.

Figures 7 through 18 illustrate a paint selection and expert coordination system that can be implemented in a kiosk such as that illustrated in Figures 1 through 6. While the system illustrated in Figures 7 through 18 describes a system of paint selection and expert coordination, it should be clear that this is merely an illustrative application.

Figure 7 illustrates a block diagram of a paint selection and expert coordination system. The paint selection and coordination system 700 may be implemented within a paint selection and coordination kiosk (eg, kiosk 100). A login component 702 may request a user to enter an existing user identification number and / or to register to use the paint selection and expert coordination system. The system can allow a user to access some or all of the functions of the paint selection and coordination system without first registering, by using a password or by setting up an account.

Once on the system, a user can select from several different options. For example, the 704 component or paint coordinator option allows the user to search for 706 inspiring paint ideas from which to select a color or color scheme, start a new 708 paint project, or recall an active 710 paint project. Planning option 712 allows the user to estimate or calculate the amount of paint that may be required for the particular project (for example, the room to be painted) 714 or to select between different paint glosses depending on whether it is a paint project. interior or exterior painting 716. A tutorial option 718 allows the user to select from various instructions or tutorial information on painting. For example, a user can select from interior overview 720, exterior overview 722, common paint problems 724, and / or a glossary of terms common to paint 726. A user can also select from a choice of 728 products that he can list various paints and / or paint products from one or more companies.

Figure 8 illustrates a registration and / or login system. A user can start by selecting between an existing user option and a new 802 user option. If the existing user option is selected, the user can log into the system by entering information such as a username, address of email, unique identifier and / or password 804. This information is then verified by the 806 system and, if accurate, allows the user to continue displaying various selection options. Alternatively, if the user selects the new user option, a registration option 808 allows a user to register with the system. The benefits of registering can be shown to a user who wishes to register. Once that record 810 is confirmed, the user is allowed to access the various functions of the paint selection and expert coordination system. Please note that according with other aspects, a user can access all or some of the various functions of the paint selection and expert coordination system without registering or logging in.

Figure 9 illustrates various components and navigation paths that a user can select once the user has logged in or is otherwise allowed to enter the system. For example, a user may select from a series of feature articles 902 that provide ideas and inspiration for painting projects, color schemes, and reference information 706. The purpose of the inspirational section is twofold. First, you should give users ideas on how to complete a project that they already have in mind, and second, you should encourage users to undertake new projects that they have not yet considered. It can serve as an emotional charge for users, showing them how they can enhance their lifestyle by adding color and self-expression. Inspirational ideas and / or articles can recommend products across product lines and provide decorating / painting information, for example showing how to accent with faux finishes. Today, consumers look to magazines for inspiration, touring model homes, visiting friends' houses, television shows, and more. This same experience can be extended with the inspiring ideas of the paint selection and coordination system. Inspirational content can be organized by themes such as region, styles, moods, functions, and color families. Additionally, seasonal content can offer the opportunity to constantly update inspirational ideas.

A user can also choose to scan 904 colors when starting a new project 708 or continuing with the active or existing project 710.

According to one aspect, a user has several options when starting a new project 708 and can select a starting color in several different ways. For example, the user can search for a color by name 906, provide a 908 starting color swatch, or browse or search through an inspirational color library and / or palette for a desired color 910. If the user chooses to provide a starting color 908, he or she can provide that starting color by providing a color swatch to a color sensor 108. If the user chooses to continue with a previously saved project 710, the system can first determine if the user is logged in If not, request that the user log in 912. The user can also select a start color from a library or color palette. The user can also adjust the start color to obtain the desired color.

Figure 10 illustrates the path or path that can be followed when starting a new project and selecting a starting color with the color selection and coordination system.

If the user chooses to start a new project 708, they are given the option to select a color from various fonts 906, 908, 910. The desired color can be searched by name in a database 1002 and, if the color is found, returned to the user for fine adjustment 1006. Fine adjustment may allow the user to make a color lighter or darker and / or more or less dull. Such fine adjustment can be made by allowing a user to gradually increase or decrease one or more of its characteristics (eg, hue, chroma, etc.). According to one aspect, the colors available in the system have predetermined relationships associated with other colors. Thus, if a user wishes to lighten a first color, for example, the user can select a "lighter" button, arrow or symbol to incrementally go to the next lighter color associated with the first color, thereby obtaining a second color. Similarly, if the user wishes to darken a first color, the user can select a "darker" button, arrow, or symbol to go to the next darker color associated with the first color, thereby obtaining a second color. Similarly, the hue or chroma of a first color can be incrementally modified by recovering the hue and / or associated chroma colors to provide a desired second color. The second color can also be modified in a similar way to achieve a desired final color.

A user may also provide a swatch 908 of the desired color 1004 and may then be allowed to adjust that color 1006 as described above. That is, the 1006 fine-tuning process may involve changing the hue, chroma, etc. color, by gradually increasing or decreasing these qualities.

In any of these cases, a user is given "the option of using an expert color coordinator 1007 to receive suggestions for complementary, harmonious or aesthetically pleasing colors that can be combined with the starting color."

According to one aspect, expert color coordinator 1007 may include a custom coordinating component 1008 that, based on the starting color, automatically selects a plurality of color combinations that are complementary, harmonious, and / or aesthetically pleasing in combination with the starting color.

These color combinations can be determined in different ways. The color combinations that are provided to the user can be selected based on a number of implementations of color theory. In one implementation, the color schemes are predetermined and stored in a database so that, once a desired starting color is selected, its characteristics or metrics (e.g. hue, chroma, tint, hue, etc. ) are determined and matched with a color in the database with the closest corresponding metrics. The system then uses the corresponding color from the database to determine complementary color combinations.

In accordance with another aspect, the metrics for the desired color are determined and then used to calculate, determine, or retrieve complementary colors that are dynamically determined or retrieved from a precompiled database.

One or more of the color combinations can also be based on the corresponding warm triad and cool triad for the starting color.

According to one aspect, the color scheme can be retrieved from a color database. The color database is a data structure in which the corresponding complementary colors are identified for each color in the database or a color palette. Various theories of color, including; a complementary color model, a tertiary color model, an analogous color model (eg, a monochrome color model) can be used to generate the various relationships between the colors that are stored in the database.

According to another aspect, the corresponding complementary colors are determined dynamically after the selection of a first color or the desired color.

Additionally, the color coordinator can interpolate between two or more colors in a database to generate complementary colors that best match for a given starting color. This interpolation can be based on the color theory used and / or the inherent characteristics or metrics that are associated with the starting color.

Additionally, the color coordinator can also be configured to take human factors into account. That is, the relationship between colors can be modified based on human experience. For example, complementary color relationships that are generated using color theory can be modified to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing color scheme. Therefore, the color database of complementary color relationships can be based on both color theory and expert input.

Once the expert color coordinator 1007 has returned one or more color combinations 1010 based on the starting or desired color, the user can select a desired color combination, an interior or exterior template 1014 (for example, interior room or exterior facade of the house) and preview 1016.

The preview function 1014 and 1016 allows the user to see what a particular color combination would look like when painted on an interior room, exterior facade, etc.

In accordance with one aspect, sample interior rooms and / or exterior facades are provided for user selection. The preview rooms and available facades are labeled so that the walls, finish, doors, floor, ceiling, etc., are identified as separate elements. In this way, a user can indicate which colors of the selected color scheme will be used to paint the walls, finish, doors, floor, ceiling, etc. The system paints the different surfaces with one or more colors selected from the color scheme. The user can then preview the selected template (for example, interior room or exterior facade) with the selected colors on the selected surfaces. According to yet another aspect, the user can upload an image of the desired project (for example, living room, dining room, exterior of the house, etc.) and select the desired color for each surface (for example, door, finish, walls, floors, etc.).

The user can modify a color scheme by using a color palette 1018. According to various aspects, characteristics such as tint, hue (eg, light and / or dark), hue and / or chroma can be modified. . Once the user is satisfied with a selected color scheme, that combination can be saved 1020.

When a user chooses to start a new project using the 910 Inspiration Library, several categories may be available from which to choose a 1022 color. Each category may allow the user to choose from several types of images, themes, and / or types of rooms you want 1024. For one or more of these selections, the user can also select a theme or mood palette 1028. Once the system retrieves an image that meets the desired characteristics, the user can modify the colors based on the color palette 1012. Once a desired color combination is obtained, the user can preview what that color combination would look like in a particular room or exterior of a home 1014 and 1016 and save it 1020.

At any time during the scan, the color scheme that is provided by the expert coordination system or the preview of the selected image, if the user wants to further modify the color, this can be done by modifying the 1020 color palette. Similarly, if a user chooses to continue working on an existing project or active project 710, previously selected or saved colors can be reviewed by modifying the color palette or a color preview can be obtained by entering the preview module.

If the user chooses to continue working on an active 710 project, a different set of options may be available. For example, Figure 11 illustrates an aspect with various options that may be available to a user when they choose to work on an active 710 project.

A user can review or edit a color 1102 to preview a selected color 1104 to review an amount of paint that may be required for a project 1106, to review the gloss of paint 1108, to print samples of the color 1110o for edit the account: information associated with user 1112 and 1114.

Selecting the color review option 1102 allows you to modify the color palette 1018. Selecting the preview color option 1104 opens the preview module 1016 and allows the user to view the selected color and modify it by using the 1018 modification color palette, if desired.

Figure 12 is a block diagram illustrating the processing of various options in Figure 11.

Selecting the paint amount check option 1106 allows the user to calculate or estimate the amount of paint needed for a particular task 1216 (Figure 12). As shown in Figure 12, a user can select between an interior 1218 and exterior 1220 paint job. According to one aspect, these two options 1218 and 1220 can provide the user with room or exterior sample shapes of various sizes between the ones to choose. According to one aspect, the paint estimator 1222 can provide the user with the amount of paint needed for a paint job rounded to the nearest standard paint unit in which the paint is sold (ie, quarts or gallons). The 1222 paint estimator can also calculate or estimate the amount of paint needed for a project based on the number of coats needed and whether the particular paint color will be used on the finish, wall, ceiling, doors, etc. . Once the user has entered the desired options, the system calculates the approximate amount of paint required for a job 1222 and can print this information for the user's convenience. Before printing, the system checks the status of the 1226 palette to determine if more information needs to be collected from the user.

Referring again to Figure 11, if the user chooses to check the gloss of paint 1108, a 1230 gloss selection option allows the user to select between interior glosses 1232 or exterior glosses 1234 and determine the desired glosses to use for your type of project. After selecting a desired paint gloss, the user can choose to print the color formula to create the particular color and gloss 1236 or save the results and return to the previous menu (ie 1202 or Figure 11).

If a user chooses to print a paint color 1110, then the paint color is displayed 1214 and printed. Sometimes there are discrepancies between the selected screen colors and the colors that can be printed using a form. In order to provide printed colors that match the actual colors selected, the system may include a hardware or software color calibration module that configures the printer or commands the printer to provide printed colors that closely match the actual colors.

A user can also edit account information, such as username, password, etc., by selecting the edit option for account 1112 and modifying existing information 1114.

Referring again to Figure 10, once a user decides to print a color or color combination, the selection is displayed in a preview 1016, adjusted as needed 1018, and saved 1020. After saving and / or store color selection 1020, user is given options 1202 to print chosen colors 1204 or check / select paint gloss 1230. If paint gloss option 1230 is selected, user can choose between interior gloss 1232 or exterior 1234 and print 1236 and / or save selection 1238. If print option 1204 is selected, user can confirm choice to print 1206, save project 1208 and print selected paint color and / or color scheme 1214. According to one aspect, a user may be required to login or register 1212 before being allowed to print. When logging in, user information can be confirmed 1210.

Figure 13 is a block diagram of a planning feature 712 (Figure 9) of the paint selection system in accordance with one aspect. The planning feature 712 can allow a user to calculate a paint quantity 714 based on the approximate sizes of room 1306 or whether it is an interior 1308 or exterior 1309 project. The calculation results can then be provided to a user 1310 for each paint color in the selected combination that may be required for a project.

Similarly, the user can compare the 716 gloss characteristics of interior 1312 or exterior 1314 project paints. That is, for the same paint, the user can be shown on the screen what the interior paint looks like and what the paint looks like. exterior painting.

Figures 14 through 17 are flow charts illustrating various user options that can be provided under Tutorial Option 718 (Figure 7) by the paint selection and coordination system according to one aspect.

Figure 14 illustrates the characteristics related to the interior painting projects 720 (Figure 7). For example, a user may receive specific paint information for a 1402 project, how to organize that project, and details about the rules and equipment that may be required for their 1406 project. Similarly, the user may receive 1408 staining information, which It includes selecting the type of appearance you want 1410, organizing a 1412 staining project, and details and useful additional information 1414 that may be needed to complete a 1414 staining project. Users can also receive information on 1416 floor coverings such as interior floor paints by selecting a 1418 aspect or scene and information on the organization of the 1420 project and details on how to carry out the 1422 project. Similarly, the user can receive information on 1424 false finishes and details on how to carry out such projects 1426.

The How-to Instructions or Tutorials 1414 and 1422 can be organized in various ways. For example, first by type of project, such as interior painting, exterior painting, deck, fence, etc. They can then be divided into stages including organizing the project, preparing it properly, using a primer, applying the top coat, and cleaning. Hands-on instructions can include text, audio, and video demonstrations. Supply lists can also be provided for particular painting projects. All instructions and supply lists can be printed for customer convenience.

Figure 15 illustrates other 718 tutorials and information related to exterior painting projects 722. As before, the system provides painting information for exterior projects 1502, as well as the organization 1504 and other details of project 1506. Likewise, the tutorials for projects Exterior paint tools can also provide information on 1508 staining and 1516 floor coverings as in Figure 14. Additionally, exterior project tutorials can include information on 1524 waterproofing surfaces, organizing those 1526 projects, and other details on how to complete projects. waterproofing 1528.

Another tutorial option may allow the user to explore or read common 724 paint problems. The user may have the option to select between 1602 interior paint projects and 1606 exterior paint projects. For each of these categories, information can be provided to the user Detailed information on paint problems 1604 and 1608. The user can also perform a search based on a keyword or phrase related to a particular paint problem.

Figure 17 illustrates another aspect in which one of the tutorial options 718 may include a glossary 726 from which a user can access general information 1702 and / or search for terms, colors, phrases, etc. 1704.

Figure 18 illustrates a 728 product option in accordance with a paint selection and coordination system implementation. This 728 product option allows advertising and / or display of various paint and decoration products. A user can search site 1802 based on one or more keywords or word (s) or phrase (s) for a desired tool or product. The system can then provide 1804 results that meet the search criteria. Alternatively, the user can select from a list of product types 1806, to search only those products of interest, or receive a list of product categories 1808. Once a product or category is selected, the details about that product or Product category can be displayed to user 1810.

According to one aspect, the kiosk can have multiple modes of operations. For example, in addition to serving as a color picker and coordinator, the kiosk can also function as a training system. A staff training function in the store can provide text, video and / or audio training information to staff. New sales associates can access a webinar on particular products. This feature can be enabled by switching the kiosk to training mode.

Another aspect provides a distributed paint color selection and coordination system that allows users to remotely access an automatic and interactive paint coordinator / advisor, set up a project, select a desired color, and receive complementary and harmonious colors in response. to the desired color selected. A user can access the previously saved project from a kiosk in the store with a very similar graphical user interface. The distributed system allows software and data updates to the store kiosks, as well as the remote user application.

Figure 19 illustrates a block diagram of a distributed system in which multiple in-store kiosks and remote computers can access the same paint color coordinator and picker system. The distributed system may include multiple in-store kiosks 1902, 1904, 1906, and 1908 that are coupled to a central server 1910. The central server 1910 may provide kiosks 1902, 1904, 1906, and 1908 with periodically updated software, data, and information or as necessary. Kiosks 1902, 1904, 1906, and 1908 can be communicatively coupled to one or more servers 1910 through various communication links, including the Internet, radio waves, and point-to-point communication links. Server 1910 can connect to the Internet and provide a paint color coordinator and selector application to remote terminals / computers 1912.

The distributed system enables a paint manufacturer to establish a relationship with customers, educate the customer about the manufacturer's paint products, and extend that relationship from home to store.

A user using a remote 1912 computer / terminal can access the paint color selector and coordinator application (s), which may have similar functionality, user interfaces and navigation to the system illustrated in Figures 7 to 18 and described above. This system allows the user to become familiar with the appearance and use of the paint color selector and coordinator application, start a painting project, select one or more desired colors and be informed about the complementary colors corresponding to the selected colors. An implementation of the distributed paint color selection and coordination system serves to entice consumers to become more comfortable and familiar with the appearance and use of paint colors beyond the standard white and neutral colors.

A distributed system implementation allows a user at home or in the store to create a personal project folder that includes information such as their projects, palettes, practical information, and so on. This project folder can be accessed online (for example, via the Internet) or in store (for example, using the kiosk) through some form of user identification. Scenarios include someone picking your colors at home but returning to the store for tabs and adjustments, or starting a project profile at the store and adjusting it within your own time frame while at home. According to one embodiment of the invention, a personal profile created in a store kiosk can be periodically downloaded to a server or central system so that the user can access it through a network (eg, the Internet). Conversely, a profile created via the Internet (eg via a personal computer) can be sent to the local store, which can be selected by the user, so that it is available when the user visits the store. According to another aspect, a kiosk in the store can retrieve the user's profile and / or project information previously entered when the user logs into the kiosk. Newly created projects on the Internet can be sent only to those kiosks that the user indicates are within their local area or store.

Store kiosks may include a storage device for storing a plurality of projects that were started at the kiosk or on a remote computer / terminal. Stored projects can be retrieved from a remote terminal or in-store kiosk for editing, reviewing, and / or printing. According to one aspect, the stored project can be stored on one or more servers 1910 from where it can be retrieved.

Figure 20 illustrates a method of using the distributed paint color selection and coordination system according to an aspect. A user can use a personal computer to access the Internet and start a painting project 2002, select a start color 2004 and receive one or more complementary color combinations 2006. The user can familiarize himself or herself with the system and, once done, store the 2008 project. The user can continue their experience with the paint color selection and coordination system when visiting a store to purchase the paint needed for the project. The user can use a kiosk, such as the one illustrated in Figures 1-6, to retrieve the previously stored 2010 project, review the complementary color combinations provided by the system, adjust the colors, and / or print a preview of a 2012 color scheme.

From a personal computer or a kiosk in the store, a user can print an estimate of the different paint colors that will be required for the project and / or the color scheme or formula for each of the colors in the selected color scheme .

Another aspect of the distributed system may include the heartbeat monitoring function. This feature minimizes system downtime by having a 1902 kiosk in the store that is monitored and alerted to a manager (for example, via a 1910 server, phone message, email, flashing light, audible alarm, etc. ) if a kiosk becomes unresponsive, runs out of paper or ink, some other alert is triggered, etc.

A remote update feature allows content to be distributed to multiple store locations from one central location. Stores or kiosks can be grouped according to different criteria such as region, store type, market, etc., and the content can be deployed in various criteria groups. For example, a central server can update a kiosk's color palette, software, graphical user interfaces, etc. remotely. Additionally, different forms of content (eg advertising) may be displayed on the kiosk screen based on the type of store you reside in.

Figure 21 illustrates a system that can be implemented over the Internet to allow a user to access the paint color selection and coordination system, described above, through the Internet. A web page can be used where the user can access the color selection and coordination system through the Internet. Said web page may include a store locator option 2102 to allow a user to search and locate a store 2104 and provide details of said store 2106. The interactive system of the web page may also include security information 2108 to educate users. about paint products, such as material safety data sheets for one or more products.

The website may also include a 2114 company information option that provides information such as 2118 press releases, 2120 events, 2122 career or employment opportunities, and 2124 contact information for one or more companies that implement the selection and coordination system. of paint colors. Said page The web may also include a 2126 login or registration window to access the paint selection and coordination system via the Internet.

Figures 22A through F illustrate a block diagram for a color selection and coordination application that can be implemented in a kiosk in the store according to one aspect. Referring to Figure 22A, the kiosk may have an attraction loop 2202 in which the kiosk displays a home screen 2204 to entice potential consumers to use the color matching and selection kiosk. If a user chooses to use the kiosk, the project initiator module 2206 provides the option to log into an existing project or workbook 2208. Additionally, the module 2206 may also allow the user to view the content in the selection kiosk and Color coordination in a different language such as Spanish 2210 or French 2212. The user can initiate a project by identifying whether the painting project is an interior or exterior 2214 painting project.

The user can then choose a starting color for the project in different ways. One option is for the user to provide the starting paint color 2228. In this option, the user can choose a start color from a color wheel or table 2232, scan a sample of the desired start color 2234, or identify the start color "by name, number or code 2244.

According to one aspect, a user can be given several options from which to select the start color 2230. For example, the user can create or choose a start color by examining a color palette, color wheel, or any other arrangement. color code 2232 and then adjust that starting color 2233 to hue, chroma, lightness, hue, etc. desired. The user can also scan the desired start color 2234 based on a sample, such as a fabric or a paint chip. The system then provides the 2236 scan instructions to allow the user to scan the color swatch into the system. The user is then allowed to scan the color swatch 2238, 2240, 2242. Once the color swatch has been scanned, a confirmation message notifies the user that the scan is complete 2239. According to a third way After choosing a start color, a user can provide a name, number, and / or color code by which to identify the 2244 start color. The start color is then searched in a database of names, numbers, or color codes 2246. If a color is not found, user 2248 is alerted.

Once the user has selected a desired starting color, the desired use of color 2262 is specified, such as interior, exterior, ceiling, walls, floors, etc. This information allows the system to narrow its search for color coordination to the appropriate paint colors. The system then uses its internal color coordination database to provide one or more color coordination schemes that include the desired color 2264. Such color coordination schemes can include one or more colors that are complementary to the starting color. selected. The user is then allowed to select one of the color schemes that are provided by the system.

The selected color scheme can be 2268 modified or finely tuned to the desired final colors. For example, for any of the colors displayed in the selected color scheme, the user can modify the chroma, hue, hue or tint, lightness or darkness of that color. To do this, the system can include a database through which each color that is modified 2266 can be referenced. This database makes it possible to identify the next lighter and / or darker color available. Such a database can also allow a user to retrieve other similar colors in hue or chroma for any given color.

The user is also allowed to print the selected 2284 color scheme, preview the 2276 color scheme as it would appear in a room, or preview the color scheme as it would appear on an exterior 2270. If the user chooses to preview the color scheme in a 2276 room, the 2278 room type or style is selected first, such as living room, dining room, kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, etc. The user is then asked to associate the colors in the selected color scheme with one or more of the various surfaces in room 2280, such as walls, floors, trim, doors, accents, etc. The selected sample room is then displayed on a display screen showing the user-selected colors on the appropriate surfaces and it is allowed to adjust each color and / or remap the surface the 2282 is placed on. Similarly, if the When the user chooses to view a sample exterior, the user can select an exterior type 2270 and associate one or more colors from the selected color scheme with the various 2272 surfaces, such as exterior walls, doors, trim, accents, etc. The user is then shown the exterior with the selected colors on associated surfaces 2274 and each color can be finely adjusted and / or reassigned the surface on which it is placed. Note that a particular color in the color scheme may not be used at all or may be placed on more than one surface in the preview modules.

The user can then proceed to print the color scheme and / or outdoor or room swatches 2284. The print module 2284 provides the user with multiple options before printing the selected color scheme. For example, a user can request an estimate or calculation of "the amount of paint that is necessary to paint a room or the exterior of the house 2295 and 2296, or the user can specify or select gloss for the different surfaces to be painted 2297 and 2298.

According to one implementation, the system provides a 2295 interior paint calculation option. The user is prompted to provide the length and width of a room, the number of doors, windows, as well as information about the finish. Additionally, if a ceiling is being painted, the ceiling type can also be specified. If touch-up paint is desired, that option is also provided to the user. Using all of this information, the system provides an estimate or calculation of the amount of paint that would be required for that job. This result can provide the user with the amount of each paint color that will be needed to paint the ceiling, walls, finish, accents, etc. According to one aspect, the user can receive estimates rounded to the standard size of the nearest paint container. Similarly, if the user intends to do a 2296 exterior paint job, the user may be prompted to enter the square footage of the house, the number of exterior doors, windows, and shutters, garage size, and door types. garage, and if desired touch up paint. The system then calculates the amount of each paint color that is required for that paint job and provides it to the user.

User can also specify gloss for 2297 and 2298 interior and / or exterior paint projects. For example, user can specify wall, finish, door, ceiling, shutters, garage or other paints for interior or paint projects. exterior 2297 and 2298. The user is then provided with a summary of the paint amounts for each color in the selected color scheme.

The user is then given the option to print or save the selected and / or finely adjusted color scheme and information 2286. If the user chooses to print, a message appears on a 2288 screen while the color scheme is being printed. selected color. When the system finishes printing the information, a message is displayed indicating that the printing has been completed 2290, and the printed pages are printed from the 2292 and 2294 color coordination kiosk.

Referring again to Figure 22B, the user may also choose to use the interior or exterior inspiration libraries 2250 and 2256, which include one or more inspiration categories from which to choose color schemes or ideas. Inspiration libraries may also include inspiration palettes, such as color wheels or color charts, 2252 and 2258 from which the user can make a selection of 2254 and 2260. Selecting a desired color scheme takes the user to the start of color scheme 2268 from where the user can print, edit, preview or save color schemes as previously described. According to one aspect, the system may include one or more alerts to enable various functions. For example, the system may provide the user with a reboot feature and a confirmation 2216 to allow the user to return to the home window 2206. Another alert may indicate that the printer is not in service 2218 or that the color sample scanner requires 2220 calibration. However, other alerts indicate where the 2222 scanner needs to be repaired. Additionally, the system may also indicate that a question was discovered or that a particular brightness color is a 2226 custom color. The system can also track the percentage of times sessions were timed out, the number of times clients requested to start over, and, overall, how many times each alert was triggered.

Figure 23 is a block diagram illustrating details of the printing process of block 2288, in Figure 22, in accordance with one aspect. The user is asked if the project will be saved before printing 2300 and 2301. If not, then the color scheme and 2302 information are printed. However, if the user chooses to save the project before printing, the system then checks if the user is logged in 2303. If the user is already logged in, the process proceeds to request a project name 2356 (Figure 23E) for the project. Once the user provides a name for project 2356, the system checks to see if it is 2359 connected, to a server or other storage facility, for example. If the system is connected to a server or storage facility, then the project is saved 2358. Otherwise, if the system is not connected, the system indicates that the project will be saved on the next successful connection 2360, and then proceeds to print the color scheme and selected information 2362. The system then displays a print complete message 2290 (Figure 22D).

Referring again to Figure 23A, if the user has not logged into the 2303 system, they are given the option of registering as a new user or logging in as a previously registered user 2304. If the user chooses to register as a new user 2305, then the user is prompted to enter a username 2308. Then the system checks if the username is valid 2311. For example, the system can check if the username is a valid email address. If a username is not valid 2310, the system prompts the user to enter a valid username 2310. By providing a valid username, the system prompts the user to enter a password 2312. The system can verify the password for see if it is the proper length 2315. For example, the system may require a password to be longer than three characters. If a password does not have the required minimum number of characters 2314, then the system prompts the user to enter another password 2312. Upon entering an appropriate password of a suitable length, the system prompts the user to review the username and password 2316 If the username and password are correct 2317, then the new user is asked to choose a verification question 2340. A verification question is used to identify a user who has forgotten the username and / or password . A user can select from a series of pre-defined verification questions or they can provide their own 2340 verification questions. The system then prompts the user to enter an answer for verification question 2342. When the user has entered all of this information, the The system may also provide the new user with the opportunity to subscribe to a newsletter offer or some other 2344 offer. The system then verifies the information provided by the user 2346. The system can check if it is connected to a central database or server 2345 where you can verify the name username and / or password provided. When the system can connect to a database or central server, for example, it checks if the username is unique 2347. If the username is unique, the user receives confirmation from the 2348 record. is unique, then the system informs the user that the username is already taken 2350 and requests that the user provide another username. If the system cannot connect, then it informs the user that it is having trouble connecting to verify the 2352 information and notifies the user that the registration information will be saved and verified later. The system then proceeds to allow the user to enter a project name 2356. From this point on, the system checks if it is connected and can save the project, and then proceeds to save and / or print the project as described above. .

Referring again to Figure 23A, if the user is not a new user 2305, then the system prompts the user to enter a username 2306. Then the system checks if the username is correct 2318. In one implementation, the system can check if the username provided is in the format of a valid email address, in another implementation, the system can check a local user registry first. If a username is incorrect or cannot be found 2318, then the system can access a central database or server 2322 and request information from the user.

If the system can connect to the central database 2329, then it checks if the username is correct 2332. If the username is correct, the user is prompted to enter a password 2320. If a user has not forgotten their password , the username and password are verified. The system connects the database 2322, retrieves the information and verifies it 2329. If a username and password are correct 2332, 2334, then the user is prompted to enter the name of the project 2356 and can proceed to save the project like this as well as print the selected color scheme 2363. If the user name is incorrect 2332, the user is prompted to try to enter the correct name again 2326. In a deployment, the system can keep track of how many times the user has entered an incorrect username 2333. If the maximum number of times has been reached, then the system indicates to the user that the login has failed 2336 and prompts the user to register as a new user to save their project.

If a user's password is incorrect 2334, the system indicates to the user that the password is incorrect 2324 and requests that another password be entered 2320. If the user indicates that they have forgotten their password 2321, then the system can retrieve that information 2328 If the system can connect or retrieve such information 2331, then the system displays the verification question for user 2338 and requests that the user provide an answer 2354. If the answer is correct 2355, then the user can proceed to enter a name and save and print the project. If the answer of a user is incorrect, then the system indicates to the user that the answer is incorrect 2359, requests that a new answer be entered 2354. If the system detects that the user has entered more than the maximum number of incorrect answers 2357, the system can then request that the user register to save project 2336. According to one implementation, the system can also operate over a public or private network and / or the Internet.

Figures 24A through L are a block diagram illustrating a network-based color selection and coordination application in accordance with one implementation.

Figure 24A is an overview of the system indicating the starting point 2400 from which the user can select various color selection and coordination options. Along with color coordination options, the user can select to work on a 2401 Workbook which may include previously saved projects, explore new colors from a 2402 color palette, seek inspirational ideas 2403, seek expert advice 2404 on painting, and painting tools, and / or you can request information about the 2405 product. Additionally, a secondary set of menu options allows the user to log into the 2406 system, find 2407 store locations, request 2408 security information, find out more about the 2409 paint company in particular or seek careers within that 2410 paint company.

Figure 24B illustrates the options that are available to the user in the 2401 Workbook category. The user can either log in to the 2411 system or register as a new 2412, 2413 user. The system then verifies the user registration information 2414.

If the user has forgotten their password, the user can seek to recover said password 2415. The system prompts the user to answer a particular verification question 2416 that was selected by the user and for which the user has provided an answer during registration. . The system checks if the answer provided by the user is correct 2417. If said answer is correct, then the user can continue 2418. In any other way, the user is asked to enter the answer again.

If the user can continue through any of these login options, then they are indicated that they are logged in 2418. The user can edit a previously saved 2419 project, create a new project, and / or edit account information or the 2421 profile information. For the 2419 project summary, the user can enter a new project name or edit an existing 2420 project name. The user can then proceed to start a new project or edit an existing project. If the user chooses to start a new 2423 project, the user has several options available to start that project. Through the Explorer 2402 color module, the user You can search for a color by name or 2424 number, select a starting color from a 2425 color palette or table, or search a 2426 Inspiration Library for the desired color. Additionally, if the user wishes to edit an existing 2427 project, the user has the option of modifying a 2428 color palette, modifying the previously selected 2429 color scheme, or previewing the desired color scheme within a sample room or exterior of a house 2430. Additionally, the user has the option to calculate the amount of paint needed 2431 and edit the brightness of the paint color of the selected paint colors 2432. With any of the modification and color selection options mentioned above , the system allows the user to save and / or print a selected color scheme. The user can print the selected color palette 2433, print the preview showing the colors in an interior and / or exterior room of the house 2434, print a summary of the amount of paint that is needed for a particular project 2435 or print a summary of the highlights that were selected for the particular project 2436. Through any of these options, a printable pop-up window displays 2438 that allows the user to print and / or save said window 2437. The system then proceeds to save the desired project 2439.

Referring to Figure 24D, the system detects the point of origin of the project 2440. That is, the system determines if the user has gone through the Color option of the Explorer 2403 or the option My Workbook 2401 and / or if the user registered or logged in. If the system detects that Workbook 2401 is authenticated or the user is logged in, the system proceeds to save the project with a new name 2444 or without saving the changes 2445. The system then returns to the project summary window 2419.

If a user is not authenticated or not logged in, the project name 2441 is prompted, and then the user is prompted to login or register 2442. If a user logs in, the login information is verified 2443 and the project is saved. 2444. Alternatively, if the user is a new user, the user is prompted to register and the registration information is verified 2446. The project is then saved and the user returns to the project summary window 2419.

Referring now to Figure 24E, if the user chooses to browse the inspiration library 2403, various categories of inspirations may be available. For example, in one implementation, a 2450 practical color scheme category may include one or more 2451 items that provide practical colors for different types of rooms or exteriors or lifestyles. Another category may provide art colors 2452 with one or more items that show or describe such color schemes 2453. An emotional category 2454 may provide items 2455 that illustrate color schemes that reflect various emotional states. A 2456 fashion category can include 2457 items that are in trend or current style.

Referring now to Figure 24F, if a user selects the Expert Advice option 2404, a search capability 2508 is available from which the user can provide keywords or terms, and the results are displayed for the user 2510. Additionally , the user may be provided with a plurality of categories from which to browse or search. For example, project organizer category 2512 may allow a user to organize interior 2630 or exterior 2668 paint projects, a gloss chart category 2514 may allow a user to learn about several different paint glosses, and a glossary 2516 allows a user to quickly find information related to painting and painting projects. A 2518 paint calculator allows the user to calculate or estimate the amount of paint that may be required for a particular project. A 2520 Common Paint Problems Option provides the user with information on how to resolve 2522-2528 interior and / or exterior paint problems that may exist before, during, or after painting.

If a user selects the paint organizer option 2512, then the interior or exterior category may be available 2630 and 2668. If a user selects the interior category 2630, then various options may be available for painting interiors and walls of houses, for example. For typical 2632 paint projects, the system provides 2634 project organization tools and details, as well as the necessary tools, etc. 2636, may be available to the user. Additionally, if the user selects to stain the 2638 wood, then the desired look can be selected 2640, and the 2642 project organizer can provide 2642 organizing ideas, details on how to perform the 2644 project, and required tool information. If the user wishes to paint or stain 2646 wood floors, the desired look 2648 can be chosen and again a 2650 project organizer can provide the details, tools and information on how to accomplish such tasks. Additionally, if 2654 concrete floors are to be painted, again, the user can select the desired appearance for the 2656 concrete floor, and a 2658 project organizer can guide the user through the necessary tools and information 2660 to carry out the project. The user can also select interior mock finishes 2662, and again the system can provide the desired 2664 styles to choose from, and details on how to do the 2666 project to achieve that look.

Similarly, if a user selects to organize search information on 2668 exterior painting projects, the user receives a 2670 paint category, 2676 wood stain category, 2684 wood waterproofing category, 2690 masonry waterproofing category, 2698 wood floor painting or staining and 2706 concrete floor painting or staining. For each category, the system can provide a 2672, 2680, 2686, 2694, 2702 and 2710 project organizer and allows the user to select the 2678 appearance, 2692, 2700 and 2708 for the paint or stain project. Additionally, the system can also provide details 2674, 2682, 2688, 2696, 2704 and 2720 on how to carry out each of these projects and the tools needed to do it 2677, 2689, 2697, 2705 and 2721.

Once the user has viewed the selected information for interior or exterior projects, the system can take the user to the product detail information, Figure 24 J, under the products module 2405. This module is also accessed if the user You have selected to obtain the information for product 2406. In either case, the product module 2405 provides the user with particular products that are available to carry out the selected painting project. For example, if you want an interior project 2744, the different stains, primers, finishes, waterproofing, etc. 2746, can be shown and / or described. The system can also provide an overview of the 2748 product and 2750 details, as well as allow the user to select the appearance of said tint, finish, etc. 2752. Similarly, if the user selects to paint an exterior 2754, then various 2756 products are displayed and an overview of the 2758 product and details 2760 may be available to the user. In another implementation of the invention, the categories may also include or be organized in terms of particular projects 2762 such as carpentry, roofing, etc., and descriptions of similar projects 2764 and product information 2766 may be available. When the user accesses the module of products 2405 from the expert advice module 2404, the system can suggest products and / or present new products 2768 to the user.

Referring now to 241, if, in expert advice module 2404, the user has selected paint calculation option 2518, then interior 2722 and exterior paint calculation modules 2730 will be available. 2722 interior paint, then the user has the option of a 2724 custom estimate or a 2728 rough estimate. If a 2724 custom estimate is selected, a form is displayed in which the user can enter the dimensions of the room to be painted and is provided a more accurate result 2726. If the user does not have exact measurements but only wants an approximate amount of paint 2728, then that option is also available to the user. Similarly, if a 2730 exterior paint project is brought to the user, then the 2732 custom calculation and 2734 results are available if the dimensions are known. In any other way, an approximate result 2736 of the amount of paint needed can be provided.

Referring now to Figure 24K, if the user selects the secondary navigation options from the main 2400 window, then the user can log into the 2406 system by providing a username and password or they can select to search for a new store location . The system can also provide details on how to obtain a store 2407 and 2515. Safety information 2408 on paint and paints is also available to the user. Additionally, a user can find more information about the particular company 2409, careers within that company 2410, and news and / or events 2798 at that company. The user can also perform a 2782 job search, get details on 2784 available jobs, and apply for a 2786 and 2788 job. Other special categories may also be available, such as 2790 student opportunities, 2792 benefits available, 2794 company culture, and company testimonials 2796.

In addition, the system can also provide 2900 contact information (Figure 24L) to get in touch with the company. A 2902 contact form can be provided and a 2904 confirmation message is displayed when the form has been successfully submitted 2910. Under the 2900 contact information, the system may also provide a 2906 project assistant form to help consumers perform the projects. Once submitted, the system provides confirmation 2908 that the 2906 project wizard form has been submitted.

Figures 25A through D are a block diagram illustrating the details of selecting and fine-tuning a paint color in a network-based coordination application in accordance with one implementation. A new project can be started by selecting a 2802 color name, choosing a starting color for a 2806 color palette, or exploring the 2818 and 2826 interior or exterior inspiration options.

If a user wishes to select a starting color by name or number 2802, the system first prompts for the purpose or use of color 2810, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and / or kitchen. With this information, the system can provide one or more color coordination schemes from which the user can select a 2812. Each color coordination scheme can include two or more colors that are complementary or in some way aesthetically pleasing when worn. together.

If the user selects the start color from color palette 2806, then the start color can be refined or fine-tuned to the desired start color 2808. The system also prompts for the use of color 2810 and then provides one or more schemes of color coordination of which the user selects one 2812. The information of the color coordination scheme is then stored or maintained in a session attributes module 2814. The selected color scheme can be viewed and then modified under the start module from color palette 2834.

From this 2834 palette launch module, the user can choose to preview a room that is painted in a selected 2838 color scheme. The system provides the user with the option to select a room type to display a preview 2838 and then display the room on a 2844 screen. The user can then select the colors to be placed on one or more of the displayed room surfaces and is allowed to refine the desired colors 2848. The system can also provide a similar utility to choose the desired 2836 exterior type, preview the 2846 exterior, refine the colors as shown on the selected exterior 2850 surface. From the 2844 and 2846 preview modules, the system allows the user to print the outline of selected color 2849 and 2853 as seen in the rooms shown and / or exterior, or save that color scheme and the room or exterior 2851. Information can be saved for the project in the session attributes module 2842. From the start From color scheme 2834, the user can also refine selected colors 2852, print desired color scheme 2833, or save color scheme 2828.

Referring again to Figure 25A, if the user chooses to begin by exploring the interior or exterior inspiration categories 2818 and 2826, the system provides several inspiration categories from which the user can select. The system prompts the user to select a 2820 Inspiration Scheme and then provides details for that 2822 Inspiration Scheme. The system then takes the user to the 2834 Start Color Scheme palette from where the image can be previewed or edited or saved. color combination as described above. From the start of the 2834 palette, the user can also modify the gloss of the 2830 paint and / or calculate the amount of 2832 paint needed for a project.

With reference to Figures 25C and 25D, the user is provided with a tool by which to calculate the amount of paint 2832 that may be needed for an exterior or room painting project. If the user is painting an exterior, then the system prompts for the house size 2856, calculates the exterior values 2858, and provides the amount of paint that should be needed 2860. When the selected color scheme includes multiple colors, the system can determine the amounts of each paint color that are necessary to complete the particular project. Similarly, if the entire room is being painted, the system can prompt the user to select room size 2862 and provide other information from which to calculate the amount of paint needed to complete that 2864 and 2866 project.

A user can save this information 2881 or print it as desired 2882. From the start color scheme palette 2834, the user can also select the desired exterior or interior color highlights 2830. For example, if you are doing an exterior project, the system can assign 2870 color highlights to the different colors in the color scheme. The user can select from these highlights 2872, and this information is then provided in summary 2874 which can be printed or saved by a user. Similarly, if you are doing an interior project, the system can provide the 2876 recommended color glosses for different paint colors, depending on the purpose, etc. The user can then select or edit the recommended brightness colors 2878. This information is then provided in a summary 2880 that can be saved 2881 and printed 2882 by a user.

A help desk function may also be available with customer support for common paint problems and fixes, FAQs, a searchable knowledge base, and possibly real-time interactive support. As before, the user may be required to enter a username and password or to log in to access the system. From the login option, the user can be taken to the menu shown in Figure 9 and the subsequent system components.

According to one aspect, while the website and kiosk applications may include many of the same features, they may have different interfaces. For example, because the store kiosk can be operated with a touch screen, the buttons are necessarily large and sparse. This can cause the functionality to be spread across multiple screens in the store that would be handled more efficiently on one screen via the web. However, it is important that the store kiosk and the website resemble each other so that the customer definitely knows that they come from the same place. To minimize replicated effort, the code to access databases, coordination algorithms, etc., can be shared by the two separate platforms whenever possible.

Although the distributed system illustrated in Figure 19 has many functional tools, the overall style of the system should be friendly and inspiring. Users should be guided through the system step by step, but have the freedom to use it however they want as well.

A content management role enables content to be managed with minimal technical skill by people at various levels of the organization. Rights can be assigned to various content providers and permissions can be granted according to those rights. For example, access to product information and / or practical information may be limited to only those users who have been given permission.

Another aspect provides links to promotions and clinics. Kiosk and / or website entry GUIs or faces can be adjusted to reflect promotions such as discounted weekends and inform about various "hands-on workshops" planned at the local store.

Usage tracking can also be provided for the kiosk and / or website. Frequency of use, color options, program use, tours, etc., can be tracked and analyzed according to region, market, store, feature, etc. This information can be downloaded or sent from a kiosk to a central server for analysis.

Another aspect of the color coordination and selection system provides a data-driven color model to implement the color coordination system.

A model encapsulates more than just data and functions that operate on it. A model is intended to serve as a computational approximation or abstraction of some real world process or system. It not only captures the state of a process or system, but also how the system works.

In the context of the color coordination system, the color model captures the processes associated with color (for example, color palette coordination, computation of hues and tints, etc.), the state of the palettes of a user and represents the set of colors that make up the color palette.

In one implementation of the expert color coordinator, a real-time color model can be used in which the coordination of colors, hues and tints is calculated in real time using the principles of color theory. Colors can also be restricted to the limited colors available in the color palette. However, a real-time approach is limited because it does not allow palettes derived from color theory and requires the color coordination application to incorporate and run the necessary color calculations to derive the appropriate palettes and corresponding colors at all times. Such a computationally intensive expert color coordinator may be undesirable in certain situations, such as when the system is implemented on a server for Internet users or when processing capabilities are limited.

In another mode of the color coordinator, a data-driven color model is implemented in which it is not necessary to calculate the color values in real time because the color palette is made up of a finite set of colors, which, in combination with color coordinating palettes, hues and tints can be pre-calculated and stored in a database. A data-driven color model provides the greatest degree of flexibility and ease of use when implementing an automated color coordination coordinator. A color coordination application does not need to run and calculate color values in real time, but simply query a database. Additionally, this allows non-color theory derived palettes to be incorporated into the color coordinator's color model without changes to the application program design. That is, since color coordination relationships are defined as data, color coordination relationships from palettes not derived from color theory can be entered into the database.

Tables 1 through 7 below illustrate how a data-driven color coordination system can be implemented using various data structures. Such a data-driven color coordinating system can be employed by implementing a modality of the expert color coordinator described above. In an implementation of the color coordinator, a color database is maintained that contains all the colors available to the user.

For each color in the color database, a table or data item (for example, Table 1) is generated that contains the items shown. The color palette can include both standard colors (for example, those colors that are part of a paint product line) as well as user-defined colors (for example, from user color swatches, etc.). The Color_id and Name fields serve as color identifiers. The Source_id field is a reference to the source in which the color can be located, such as the Inspiration Library color palette, a user-defined color palette, and so on. The L_value field describes the lightness of the color. The A_value and B_value fields identify the color coordinates for a particular color in a three-dimensional color model, C_value identifies the chroma of the color, and H_value identifies the hue of the color. The Next_lighter_id and Next_darker_id fields identify the color in the database that is lighter and darker, respectively, than the current color. Similarly, the Next_chroma_id and Prev_chroma_id fields identify the color in the database that is duller and less off, respectively, than the current color. The Next_hue_id and Prev_hue_id fields identify the colors found in the database that are, respectively, next in the color spectrum or next in the color spectrum of the current color. Additionally, one or more fields can integrate the human experience into the color database. For example, the Is_wall_color_only field indicates whether the current color and the Is_offensive field can indicate whether the current color is not suitable as an interior or exterior wall color. Such fields can be based on human experience and aesthetic tastes that may not be reflected by using only one color theory.

Table 1

In the color selection and coordination system, color refinement is the process of navigating a color palette in a user-intuitive way. To that end, a fine-tuning (refine or tweak) color interface (eg, 1006 or 1018 in Figure 10) can provide such functionality in a series of buttons that allow the user to indicate which color to view next. This can be achieved by specifying relationships between colors in the color database. These relationships can be specified for each color in the color database by using the data structure or table illustrated in Table 1 where the previous and next color are identified for several different characteristics (for example, L_value , A_value, B_value, chroma C_value, H_value, Next_lighter_id, Next_darker_id, Next_chroma_id, Prev_chroma_id, Next_hue_id and Prev_hue_id). For example, a fine-tuning interface may include a "More Off" button that, when pressed, presents the user with a database color that is duller than the color they are currently viewing. Similarly, other buttons, such as "less dull, lighter, darker, may be available to refine a color."

The colors in the color database are intended to be displayed on a display screen or printed for the convenience of the user. Since many display devices (eg monitors) and printers use a basic color scheme (eg three colors: red, green, and blue) to generate all other colors, it would be advantageous and faster to process. have a ready conversion between the colors in the color database and those base colors. For each paint color in the color database, the system Coordinating colors must be able to represent a digital equivalent on the screen. For example, the colors displayed on a display screen can be expressed in terms of red, green, and blue (RGB) values.

These RGB values can be stored in a database in a separate table (eg Table 3 below) and identified by the corresponding kiosk and paint color.

The reason RGB values are not stored directly in the paint color table (e.g. Table 1) is due to the fact that although RGB values can be derived from values (e.g. L_value, A_value, B_value, C_value, and H_value) that are stored in the paint color table (for example, Table 1), often run the risk of not being visually accurate for all monitors. Various factors affect the visual accuracy of a color that is expressed on a display monitor, such as ambient lighting, temperature, etc. Adjusting RGB values to compensate for specific monitors is called calibration.

Calibration is the process of generating a color profile that is used by an application (for example, the color coordination system) to calculate the appropriate RGB values for a specific environment (for example, display monitor, printer, etc. ). Unless the color profile changes (as a result of recalibration), RGB values can be pre-calculated and stored in the database for each monitor / paint color combination to avoid the need to evaluate RGB values in real time . According to an embodiment of the invention, said conversion values (eg RGB values) are generated for each color in the database and for each display and / or printing device that can be connected to a kiosk.

Table 2 illustrates how the calibration or conversion data / values can be organized and stored in a conversion table for each color in the color database. These conversion or calibration tables represent a unique color profile for the devices in the kiosk (eg, printer, display device, etc.). The Color_id field identifies the color in the database to which the conversion data applies. The Kiosk_id field identifies the kiosk device (for example, display device, printing device, etc.) to which the conversion data applies. According to one aspect, three basic colors are used to generate all other colors in the color database. For example, the colors red, green, and blue are used in the data structure illustrated in Table 2. The R_value, G_value, and B_value fields provide the amount of red, green, and blue, respectively, that must be mixed to generate the corresponding color in the color database. In other implementations, more or less basic colors can be used.

Table 2

Another aspect of the data-driven color model provides a structure or data table (for example, Table 3) for color palettes. A color palette can be defined as a grouped color scheme. The palettes can be generated according to and grouped into schemes. For example, color palettes can be stored for Monochrome, Complementary, Warm, and Cool Color schemes. Additionally, users or other people can generate and store custom schematics.

In one aspect, a palette can be represented as a data structure in which each paint color in the palette is identified with a corresponding surface / location to be painted.

For example, Table 3 illustrates a data structure of a paint color palette in accordance with one embodiment of the data-based color model invention. The Palette_id field provides a unique identifier for the palette. The Display_name field identifies the palette by a name that can be displayed to the user of the color matching and selection system. The Wall_color_id, Accent_color_id, and Trim_color_id fields identify the colors that can be used along walls, accent surfaces, and finishes, respectively. The White_color_id field identifies the white color that can be used in conjunction with the other colors in the palette.

Table 3

According to one implementation of the color coordinator, once the user selects a starting or core color, the color coordinator accesses the color database and provides a plurality of color combinations. In many respects, a color scheme is a coordinated color scheme that can be dynamically determined or predetermined. For example, four color schemes can be provided to the user. Each of the four color schemes or palettes can be related to a separate color coordination algorithm. Tables 4 through 7 illustrate four color palettes that can be provided to the user.

Table 4 illustrates a monochrome scheme in which the colors that are selected for the Trim and Alternate Trim colors are a tint or tint of the core or start color. Accent and Alternate Accent colors are analogous colors (slightly different hue angle but belonging to the same general color area in the color space) of equal value (chroma, depth). The color White is a white color similar in tone to the color of the core.

Table 4

Table 5 illustrates a complementary color scheme in which the complementary colors are those colors approximately one hundred eighty (180) degrees from the core or start color. The Finish color is a complementary color of equal value to the center color and the Alternate Finish color is a color that is a hue or tint of the complementary color of the core color. The Accent color is a color that is a tint or hue of the core color and the Alternate Accent color is a color that is a tint or hue of the core color with more contrast. The color White is a white color similar in tone to the color of the core.

Table 5

Table 6 illustrates a warm triad scheme in which the colors are approximately 120 degrees from the core color (on the warm side of the tone). The Finish color is a Triad color (on the warm side of the tone) of equal value and the Alternate Finish color is a color that is a tint or tint of the triad (on the warm side of the tone). The Accent color is a color, tint or tint of the core color and the Alternate Accent color is a tint or tint of the core color with more contrast. The color White is a white color similar in tone to the color of the core.

Table 6

Table 7 illustrates a cool triad scheme in which the colors are approximately one hundred and twenty (120) degrees from the core color (on the cool side of the hue). The Finish color is a Triad color (on the cool side of the tone) of equal value and the Alternate Finish color is a color that is a tint or tint of the triad (on the cool side of the tone). The Accent color is a color that is a tint or hue of the core color and the Alternate Accent is a color that is a tint or hue of the core color with more contrast. The color White is a white color similar in tone to the color of the core.

Table 7

Another aspect of the invention provides the generation of the necessary color metrics (for example, in Table 1, L_value, A_value, B_value, chroma C_value, H_value, Next_lighter_id, Next_darker_id, Next_chroma_id, Prev_chroma_id, Next_hue_id and Prev_hue_id that is provided by the user eg via spectrophotometer.Therefore a user can add colors to the database and color palette.

Illustrative screens and the functionality of various aspects will now be described in relation to Figures 26 to 56. This functionality is implemented in an application program which can be written in, for example, Java, Laszlo Presentation Server or C ++ and, which it can be run, for example, on a Windows x P system or another operating system. The application can be locally based, such as in localized memory in a kiosk or it can be accessed over one or more communication links, such as from a server over the Internet. In the following discussion, reference is made to the "selection" of various links and other items that are presented on the screens under discussion. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that such selection can be made with respect to the computer display screen or monitor by various point-and-click operations or point-and-touch operations that are performed by various well-known devices, such as, for For example, a conventional mouse, trackball, or touchscreen.

Figures 28 and 29 illustrate screens that are displayed after a user has scanned a paint sample to detect its color, for example, by use of a spectrophotometer or other 308 color detection device, as previously discussed in connection with Figures 1 through 6. A user can be allowed to have the system determine a custom color to substantially match their sample color. Alternatively, the user can select a ready-to-use, premixed color ("shelf") that is the closest match to the user's eye or system.

Figure 28 illustrates a first system state where the ability to choose a custom color is disabled or a standard color from the shelf is close enough to the scanned sample color (shown in frame 3001) that a custom color is not offered. . In that case, the system displays the closest shelf color 3006 to box 3004 and the user selects one of the following links, with the resulting action illustrated in angle brackets "<>".

1. "Select" this color 3006, through the link 3003 <go to Coordination / Similar Colors: Figure 45>.

2. Rescan, link 3002, <go to initial page of scan procedure (not shown)>.

3. Back, link 3005, <go to the previous screen of the scan procedure (not shown)>.

4. Start Over, link 3007, <go to initial start page>.

The initial start page preferably allows the user to indicate if they already have a color in mind, in which case a screen like the one shown in Figure 26 or 27 is presented, or if they need some inspiration or ideas to help to select a starting color, in which case an inspiration library or display is presented, for example, as illustrated in Figures 50-55. The "Color Collection", paint names and paint codes referenced in Figure 26 and elsewhere may be from the Behr Color Collection, available from Behr's assignee, Behr Process Corporation, Santa Ana, California.

Figure 29 illustrates a second system state where the ability to choose a custom color is enabled and the user sample is not close enough to a standard color on the shelf. In that case, the user selects one of the following:

1. "Select this color / I want a custom color", link 3009, <go to Coordination / Similar Colors: Figure 45>.

2. "Select this color / I want the closest shelf color", link 3011, <go to Coordination / Similar Colors: Figure 45>.

3. Rescan, link 3002, <go to initial page of scan procedure>.

4. Back, link 3005, <go to the previous screen of the scan procedure>.

5. Start Over, link 3007, <go to initial start page>.

The Application is preferably constructed so that the custom color component can be disabled at any time by a system administrator when manipulating a property initialization file.

If the user selects a custom color, where a ready-to-use standard paint color would be displayed in the rest of the application, "Custom Color" is displayed. For example, in Figure 29, the text "Birthday Candle" would be replaced by "Custom Color" and the text "100 C-3" would be removed. No text is displayed where the standard shelf color paint code ("100 C-3") would be displayed.

The system can be configured to request a brightness selection, for example by generating a "Custom Brightness Alert" such as "Due to custom formula requirements, the scanned color needs a brightness mapping. Please select at least one area for your custom color. " The flow then proceeds to a custom color brightness mapping screen (not shown) that allows users to select an area or areas they intend to paint to to map the custom color to, and then proceeds to a custom color mapping screen. interior and / or exterior brightness, as relevant to options.

Figures 30 through 42 illustrate screens that are used in a preferred "scan" implementation, which allows the user to select from a range of shelf colors that are displayed by the system. This "scan" feature can be entered, for example, through links 3012 and 3013 in Figure 26 and Figure 27, respectively.

The color gamut of the shelf is preferably stored in a table in memory which can be referred to as a "color selection table." An example of such a table is illustrated in Figure 56. The illustrative table in Figure 56 includes a range of columns of red 3014, orange 3015, yellow 3016, green 3017, blue 3018 and purple 3019 and neutral / black 3020. The number Columns can be 70, for example. The table also includes a matrix of "associated targets" 3021. In a preferred table, each column includes 23 colors comprising shades selected from the primary hue. Each of the 23 colors is assigned a unique numeric code, for example 450, 450A-1, 450A-2, 450A-3, 450B-4, 450B-5, etc. Various coding schemes known to those of skill in the art can be used.

Multiple navigations from one color to the next color in the table in Figure 56 are plotted on an XML map or dataset. For example, if the user is in color 450A-1 and selects a "next hue" link, the XML code indicates that color 450A-2 is selected. A selected set of colors in a column can be called a "card", analogous to a physical card on a color shelf display. A "card" can contain, for example, four or five shades of a selected shade.

Upon initial entry to the "browse" function, the user is presented with the screen shown in Figure 30. Here, the user selects one of the color links for one of a plurality of color ranges: Reds 3014, Oranges 3015, Yellow 3016, Green 3017, Blue 3018, Purple 3019, Neutral / Black 3020 or White 3021. All color links will Examine: Figure 31, except "White", which will Examine: Figure 38.

The screen in Figure 31 is entered through the animation from Browse: Figure 30. According to the animation, the eight 3022 color tabs slide towards the bottom of the screen in Figure 31 to become the slider "Change color family". Figures 30 and 31 particularly illustrate the selection of "greens" 3017. Upon initial entry into the screen of Figure 31, the user is shown the 23 colors 3031 for the selected hue, in this case 23 shades of green. No color is preselected, however a bar element is highlighted rectangular 3023 that sits in the middle of the screen and represents a predetermined color. If a user selects one of 23 3031 colors, the selected color rectangle is highlighted on the screen.

The functionality of various links presented by the screen in Figure31 is:

Associated targets 3026 <go to Browse: Figure 33>.

If the user selects left arrow 3027 or right arrow 3028 from the 3029 mid-page bar, then the page reloads with the next column of colors displayed accordingly and with the 3029 mid-page bar displayed. highlighted with the column just specified.

Change the 3034 color family <As shown in Figure 32, a tab slides up revealing all 3014, 3015, 3016, 3017, 3018, 3019 tones except white and neutral / black; if the user selects a different shade from group 3022, then the page in Figure 31 reloads with the color specified in the XML map>. Select this color 3035 <go to Coordination / Similar Colors: Figure 45>.

Fine adjustment 3036 <go to Browse: Figure 39>.

Start over <go to home page>.

Back <go to Browse: Figure 30>.

If "Associated Targets" 3026 is selected on the screen of Figure 31 or Figure 32, the screen of Figure 33 is displayed. The particular targets that are displayed are determined by the XML mapping. When the screen in Figure 33 is displayed, the 23-color buttons 3031 and the related bar 3029 are reduced in size and animated (moved) to the left leaving room for 9 white buttons 3032 to animate to the right. In this screen, all the tone links and target tabs are active and when one is selected it is highlighted on the screen. No target token is selected by default.

The functionality of various links on the screen in Figure 33 is as follows:

If the user selects left arrow 3027 or right arrow 3028 from the raid page bar 3029, the page reloads with the next column of colors displayed accordingly.

Change color family 3034 <tab slides revealing all shades except white and neutrals / blacks as shown in Figure 32; if the user selects a different shade, then the page in Figure 33 reloads with the associated targets for those shades>.

Select this color 3035 <go to Coordination / Similar Colors: Figure 45>.

The Fine Tune, Start Over, and Back links provide the same functionality as the screen in Figure 31. If "Neutral / Black" 3020 is selected on the screen in Figure 30, the eight-color 3022 tabs fade on the screen. from Figure 35. Upon entering, the user is shown cards 4, 5 and 6 of yellow neutrals and moves in groups of 3 cards to the right or left in the color selection table, except that card 10 it shows itself. No tab is selected when entering, and when a tab is selected, 3039 is highlighted. The horizontal bar item 3040 in the middle of the screen represents where the user is through highlighting: navigation is "redder, etc. . " depending on the location of the user selection (not warmer / cooler); a user can traverse the 3 neutral groups through this bar. A user can navigate from yellow neutrals to blue neutrals to red neutrals (in all three neutral families) by continuing to use this 3040 bar. An arrowhead 3041 indicates the user's location.

Figure 36 shows how the screen appears when there is only one color remaining for the "neutral yellow" color family. Figure 37 shows the active state of the "family change bar" when activated from Figure 35. A tone control bar for neutrals may be provided to allow users to switch to the red, yellow or blue tone, depending of your location. The hue control bar is the largest bar in Figure 35 with the text "Change Family Neutral", which, when activated, looks like Figure 37. The functions of the links Select this color, Fine tune, Start Back and Back on the screen of Figure 35 are the same as in Figure 31. If "White" 3021 is selected on the screen of Figure 30, the eight-color tabs (3022) fade on the screen of the Figure 38. The multi-link functionality in Figure 38 is as follows:

1. When entering: The user uses by default the 9 white 3042 for the blue tone because in the illustrative mode under discussion the "whitest" white is "Ultra Pure White", which is an associated white for the family of blue colors. 2. Warmer 3037 <page reloads with whites the next warmest color>.

3. Cooler than 3039 <page reloads with whites the next coldest color>.

4. Select this color 3035 <go to Coordination / Similar Colors: Figure 45>.

5. Fine Tune 3036 <go to Browse: Figure 43>.

6. Start over <go to Start>.

7. Back <go to Browse: Figure 30>.

Navigation through the available "blanks" is achieved, for example, by reading from an XML table.

If associated Neutrals are selected through link 4030 in Figure 36, the screen of Figure 42 appears.

1. Animation: Color buttons 4031 and the related bar are reduced in size and animated on the left leaving room for 9 white buttons 4035 to animate on the right of Figure 42. All shades and all white tabs they are active and, when selected, should be highlighted. No target token is selected by default. The 9 targets apply to the 3 neutral groups.

2. If the user selects the left arrow or right arrow on the bar in the middle of the page, the page reloads with the corresponding column of neutrals displayed.

3. A neutral tone control bar allows users to switch to the neutral tone of red, yellow or blue, depending on their location.

4. Select this color <go to Coordination / Similar Colors: Figure 45>.

5. Fine adjustment <go to Browse>.

6. Start over <go to Start: Figure 30>.

7. Back <go to Browse>.

Once the user has selected a color, for example, in one of the screens from Figure 31 to 37, the user can decide to "Fine Adjust" the color, for example through link 3036. Selection of link 3036 on the screens of Figures 31 through 33 results in the display of the screen shown in Figure 39, which provides a color adjustment "tool". The color theory behind this tool is numerical, that is, a number is assigned to each different color in the table, for example, from Figure 56, and the "fit" or move to another color is defined as a move to another number in the table through the XML data table.

The user can fine-tune the color through any of the following controls: Brighter 3051, Less Brilliant 3053, Lighter 3054, Darker 3055, More 3056 <next shade to left> and More 3057 <next shade to right >. Once a user is satisfied with their color selection, the user selects "Select this color" <go to Coordination / Similar Colors: Figure 45>. The user can also select "Back", <go to the previous screen> or "Start over", which will take the user to the beginning <go to the Home page>. Figure 40 illustrates that the "brightest" button no longer appears when the user has already selected the brightest color available.

If the user selects the link "Fine Tune" 3036 in the screen of Figure 38 (ie fine adjustment of a color "white"), the screen of Figure 43 appears. The user can adjust the color through these controls: warmer 3061 or cooler 3062. Once a user is satisfied with their color selection, the user selects "Select this color" <go to Coordination / Similar Colors: Figure 45>. The user can also select "Back", <go to the previous screen> or "Start over", which will take the user to the beginning <go to the Home page>.

If the user selects "Fine Tune" on the screen of Figure 35, 36 or 37 (ie fine adjustment of a neutral color), the screen of Figure 41 appears. The color theory behind this tool is again numerical . The user can fine-tune the color through any of the following controls:

1. More <red, yellow or blue>; the user cannot pass to another neutral group through this functionality.

2. Clearer.

3. Darker.

4. Neutral tone control bar (red, yellow, blue); the user cannot pass to another neutral group through this functionality.

Figures 44 through 49 illustrate screens for implementing the functionality so that a user can select a color and then build their own color palette. The screen of Figure 45 is reached after a single color has been selected, for example, as a result of a scan or search operation as discussed above. The "Add Color" link 3075 takes the user to Figure 26, where the user decides how they want to add color. The "Coordinates" link 3076 takes the user to Figure 46. The preview / print can lead to a print function for the selected colors.

The first page of the "coordinates" screens, Figure 44, provides the following functionality:

1. The user can build his own palette by selecting the link "Build your own color" 3071 <go to Start: Figure 26>.

2. The user can get color recommendations by selecting the link "Get color recommendations" 3072 <go to Coordination / Similar Colors: Figure 47>.

3. User can "Start over" link 3073 <go to Home page>.

This page (Figure 44) will not display a dynamically generated color coordination palette.

If the user selects "Get Color Recommendations" in Figure 44, the screen in Figure 47 "Coordinate Your Color" is displayed. The screen in Figure 47 offers the following functionality:

1. The user can select "See similar colors" to my color 3076, link 3075, <go to Coordination / Similar Colors: Figure 48>.

2. The user can select "Coordinate with color 3076 as main color", link 3077, <go to Coordination / Similar Colors: Figure 49>.

3. The user can select "Coordinate with color 3076 as accent color", link 3078 <go to Coordination / Similar Colors: Figure 49>.

4. User can select "Start over" <go to Home page>.

This page (Figure 47) will show the user a similar color and a representative, dynamically generated coordinate palette based on their preselected color.

Regarding the screen in Figure 46, the user must designate a color as their primary color by clicking / tapping that color "Birthday Candle" 3077 or "Williamsburg Blue" 3078 and then clicking / tapping the "Select" link. "3079 <go to Coordination / Similar Colors: Figure 49>. In Figure 46, the color 3077 "Birthday Candle" has been selected as the "Main Color". The only other functionality on this page, Figure 46, is that the user can "Start over" at link 3080 <go to Home page>. The user navigates to Figure 46 by pressing "coordinate" in Figure 45.

Selecting link 3077 or 3078 on the screen in Figure 47 or selected link 3079 on the screen in Figure 46 initiates the display of the screen in Figure 49, which provides the following functionality:

1. User can select one of four 3-color coordinated palettes 3085, 3086, 3087, 3088 to continue with, eg a palette home page.

2. The user can select "More" to see more coordinated palette options <reload the screen with more palette options (the palette screen option displays Figures 48 and 49>. If "More" is pressed, the replaces in the next view on screen 49 with the word "Previous" (item 4 shown below).

3. User can "start over" <go to Home page>.

4. Displays "Previous Combinations".

5. User can go back "Back" <go to previous screen>.

Selecting the link "See similar colors" 3075 on the screen of Figure 47 initiates the display of the screen of Figure 48, which provides the following functionality:

1. The user can select one of the four similar palettes with which to proceed through one of the links 3081, 3082, 3083, 3084 <go to Palette Start>.

2. User can select "More" to view more similar palette options <reload screen with more palette options>.

3. User can "start over" <go to Start>.

Figures 50 through 55 represent an illustrative implementation of a sequence of inspirational ideas. Figure 50 allows the user to select an "indoor" or "outdoor" inspirational scene through links 4003, 4005. In response to that selection, the screen in Figure 51 presents an inspirational carousel animation, which runs through 4 images, eg 3089, 3094, before landing on the opening image 3090 of the "slideshow". A cycle of 4 images is stored for each of the inner and outer slides. Regarding the screen of Figure 51, the user is shown a thumbnail slideshow with the initial image 3090 contained in the central and larger frame 3094. The user can view other inspiring images, eg 3089, 3091, in the center / larger box 3090 when clicking the "previous / next" page icons 3092, 3093. When the user clicks on an image in the center box 3091, the main display window is animated to the left and 4 tabs 3095, 3096, 3097, 3098 appear on the right side of the screen with the selected image displayed on the top tab 3095, as shown in Figure 52 <go to Inspiration: Figure 52>.

By manipulating buttons 3092, 3093 on the screen of Figure 52, the user can select up to 4 thumbnails to insert into tabs 3095, 3096, 3097, 3098, each labeled with its category, as illustrated in Figure 53. The user can also start over <go to Home page>.

Figure 51 refers to the initial state of the category selection screen. After a user has touched an image and thus selected a category, the page is animated to look like Figure 52 with the category or categories that the user has chosen by filling in links 3095-3098. Once at least one image / category has been chosen on the screen of Figure 51, a user can at any time click on the "now available" tabs 3095, 3096, 3097, 3098 to the right of Figure 52 to see the results on the screen in Figure 54 <go to Inspiration: Figure 54>. The results are preferably a coordinated inspiration palette dataset that is organized by color, style, mood, and life stage.

If the user returns to the Figure 51 page from the Figure 54 Inspiration page, the page (Figure 51) should reload up to the last 4 images / categories chosen as buttons at the bottom. Links 3095 3098 in Figure 52 must be completed with the same categories available in Figure 54 if "return to categories" in Figure 54 is pressed.

If the user has selected 4 thumbnails and then selects a 5th, the 1st chosen thumbnail will be removed (and so on). Finally, the user can go "Back" through link 4000 in Figure 51 to select interior / exterior again in Figure 50.

With respect to the screen in Figure 54, the user is shown up to 3 palettes per page of the selected category. In other words, each time a user accesses links 4011, 4012, they move to the next "page", or set of 3 palettes, for a given category. Each category can contain a large number of palettes that can only be viewed 3 at a time.

1. User can "go back" to the slide show in Figure 51 and the slide show will remember their last 4 options <go to Inspiration>.

2. The user can select a single palette to advance by clicking / tapping one of the "Select" links 4013, 4014, 4015 <go to Inspiration: Figure 55>.

3. User can "start over" <go to Home page>.

When the 4020 "Select" link is chosen on the page in Figure 55, the user is sent to the home page of a palette along with the colors from the inspiration palette, which populate the home page of the palette.

A useful color selection method can be implemented to assist the user in selecting additional colors to match the first and second colors that the user has chosen. In an illustrative aspect of such a method, for any combination of two preselected colors, 8 coordinate palettes are created.

When considering Figure 57, the first two palettes are tint / tint palettes based on user-selected A and B colors. The same color selection method is used to generate the first two palettes, regardless of the relationship between colors A and B, according to the following selection criteria:

Palette 1:

A: Known

B: Known

C: If A is light, color C is a shade of A

If A is dark, color C is a tint of A

D: A target

Here the user selects A from a set of available colors, such as those in the table in Figure 56. The associated "white" for each such A color is stored and retrieved, for example, by a table lookup operation. The "hue" and "tint" of the color are completed in real time. The "hue" can be determined by subtracting "15" from the L value of A while keeping the chroma and hue constant. The "tint" can be determined by adding "15" to the L value of A, again keeping the chroma and hue constant.

Palette 2:

A: Known

B: Known

C: If B is light, color C is a shade of B

If B is dark, color C is a tint of B

D: A target

For palette 2, "tint", "tint" and "white of A" can be determined in the same way as is used for palette 1. To set whether a known color, for example, "A" is " light "or" dark for the purposes of palettes 1 and 2, the color space as illustrated in Figure 58 can be divided into several segments (arcs measured in degrees), such as 36. A selected range of colors , like 21, each segment is considered "dark" and the rest "light." Alternatively, a selected color in each segment is chosen as a "center" color. Whether color A is "light" or "dark" is determined then by its position relative to the color of the core of the segment within which A. is located. Thus, lightness or darkness in this context can be determined by a software-implemented table lookup operation. To create the following six palettes, takes into account the relationship between colors A and B. First we determine the sector which is made up of two selected colors. Two properties are primarily of interest: angle and warmth or coolness of the sector. The angle of the red-orange portion of the color wheel is defined as follows:

The respective angle values in yellow-green-blue may be slightly different than in red-orange.

We assume that the warm region of the color wheel oscillates between 315 ° to 140 ° counterclockwise; cold region 105 ° - 320 ° clockwise. The method further avoids the use of complementary colors for narrow angles for the following reason: the true complement for two colors with a tone distance less than 100 ° will have a considerably higher chroma than the source colors; likewise, the complement chroma would have a significantly lower value for hue distances greater than 140 °, and it is preferred that the chroma remains within the normalized values of two selected colors.

To facilitate discussion of how the remaining 6 palettes are determined, it is assumed that color A is always to the left (counterclockwise) of color B, and color D is always selected as the white of color A. According to the following paragraphs, the method used to determine Color C for each of the remaining 6 palettes is described based on the relationships between colors A and B. The determination can be implemented by data using the use of appropriate data structures as discussed, for example, in relation to Tables 1 through 7 above.

If A and B are characterized by "No angle", then color C is selected as illustrated in Figure 58 and for each of the remaining 6 palettes respectively equal, for the remaining 6 palettes, respectively:

Palette 3: Analog counterclockwise of A.

Palette 4: Analog clockwise of B.

Palette 5: Clockwise from a complement to a division.

Palette 6: Counterclockwise from a complement to a division.

Palette 7: Best Warm (Calculate the warm triad for each of A and B, and select the result that is warmer ...). Palette 8: Best cold (Calculate the cold triad for each of A and B, and select the result that is coldest ...).

If A and B are characterized as "Sharp", then color C is selected as illustrated in Figure 59 and equals: 3. Counterclockwise Analog of A. Analog Angle should be adjusted based on in the angle between A and B. For example, if the angle AB is 25 °, the analogous angle will be 35 ° to compensate for the smaller angle between Ab. However, if angle AB is 40 °, that analogous angle should be 40 ° as well to maintain proportion. Therefore, the analogous angle is never less than 30 °, but increases for angles AB smaller and larger than 30 °.

4. Analog clockwise of B.

5. Complement of A.

6. Complement of B.

7. Better warm.

8. Better cold.

If colors A and B are characterized as "Sharp Right", then color C is selected as illustrated in Figure 60 and is equal to:

3. Warm or cold from A, whichever is counterclockwise.

4. Warm or cold from B, whichever is clockwise.

5. In a counterclockwise direction analogous to (1). In this specific angle we do not use the complement because (1) or (3) will be the complement of A depending on the angle. The same is true for (4).

6. Clockwise from the analog clock of (2)

If ( 5) and ( 6) are too close, ( 5) is recalculated clockwise and ( 6) counterclockwise.

7. Cold if (3) is warm and warm if (3) is cold based on A.

8. Cold if (4) is warm and warm if (4) is cold based on B.

If the angle is wide, then color C is selected as illustrated in Figure 61, and is the same for all six palettes, respectively:

3. Complement of A and B.

4. If sector AB is warm, the warm palette is created; otherwise, a cold palette is used. The core color in the palette will not necessarily be the main color, the core is the color that produces the third color within the selected sector.

5. Complement of A.

6. Complement of B.

7. Opposite of (4). If the AB is warm, the cold palette is created; otherwise, the warm palette is used. The core color of the palette will not necessarily be the main color. Color is the color that produces the third color within the selected sector.

8. Division.

If the angle is ultra wide, then color C is selected as illustrated in Figure 62 and is equal to:

3. Complement of A and B.

4. Division.

5. Clockwise analog of a complement to (4). We did not use the analog of a (3) due to chroma adjustment when calculating the divided complement. The same for (6).

6. Analogous in the counterclockwise direction of a complement to (4).

7. Better warm.

8. Better cold.

If A and B are opposites, then C is selected as illustrated in Figure 63, and is equal to:

1. Best warm - the warmest of the warm for A and warm for B.

2. Best cold - the coldest of the cold for A and the cold for B.

3. Analog of A clockwise.

4. Analog of B counterclockwise.

5. Division.

6. Complement of a division.

In a case where the user has chosen three colors and wants the system to provide a matching fourth color, it is difficult to implement an angle-based method as was done for two colors. Therefore, a different method is preferably used. In particular, for each selected color (A, B, C) the complementary colors, warm, cold and two analogous colors are calculated and AO, AW, AC, AR, AL are designated for color A; BO, BW, BC, BR, Bl for color B; and finally CO, CW, CC, CR, CL for C.

The first three palettes are created using tints for selected colors, where color A, color B, and color C are known. In this case, the selection method for color D is as follows:

1. If A is light, D = Tint of A. If A is dark, D = Tint of A.

2. If B is light, D = Tint of B. If A is dark, D = Tint of B.

3. If C is light, D = Tint of C. If A is dark, D = Tint of C.

The method described above for determining "tint" and "hue" can be used again.

For the remaining five palettes, the calculated colors are added in the following order: Complement first (AO, BO, CO), followed by warm (AW, BW, CW) and cool (AC, BC, CC) and finally analogous (AR , AL, bR, BL, CR, CL). If the new color (AO) is not the same as B, C, or forms sharp tone angles with B or C or previously added colors, it is chosen as color D; otherwise, the color is rejected and the selection routine moves to the next calculated color. The iterations continue until five D colors are added. The hue angles for all the selected colors are then analyzed. If there is a sharp angle (<35 degrees) present between A and B or B and C, the system finds an unused color among the candidate colors that is best coordinated with A and C, and discards a previously added color from the more populated side of the spectrum.

Claims (20)

1. A computerized method for assisting a user with color selection through selection operations performed on a computer controlled display (404) comprising the steps of: presenting the user with a first display screen on said computer controlled screen (404), by providing said first display screen with a first display of a plurality of color ranges (3014, 2015, 3016, 3017, 3018, 3019, 3020, 3021); respond to the user's selection of a first of said color ranges on said first screen by providing the user with a second screen on said computer controlled screen comprising a plurality of colors in a selected sub-range (3031) within the first range of colors, said second screen also provides: (a) a first link (3034) that allows the user to display a sub-range of colors within a second of said plurality of color ranges, (b) a second link (3026) that allows the user to cause the generation of a third screen (3032) comprising a plurality of shades of white associated with said first color gamut, and (c) a third link (3036) to a second display screen that allows fine tuning of a first color in the first sub-range after the user has selected that color; respond to the user's selection of said second link (3026) to present to the user the third screen comprising the plurality of said shades of white (3032), each shade of white appears in a respective one of a plurality of screen regions , each of said screen regions comprising a link to select the particular hue of white associated with that respective screen region; responding to the user's selection of said third link (3036) by presenting the user with the second display screen in which the user can activate at least one fine-tuning operation with respect to the first color; displaying the first color and at least one selected shade of white from the plurality of said shades of white with a third display screen on said computer controlled screen, the third display screen shows a room with the first color displayed on a first surface of the room and the at least one selected shade of white in a second surface of the room, the first surface and the second surface are selected by the user from at least one of a wall, a floor, a finish and a door. The method of claim 1, wherein said plurality of ranges comprises a range of reds, a range of oranges, a range of yellows, a range of greens, a range of blues, a range of purples, a range of neutrals. / blacks and a range of whites. The method of claim 2, wherein said display of said plurality of colors in said selected sub-range (3031) comprises a series of select buttons, each corresponding to one of said plurality of colors. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein said series comprises 23 buttons. The method of claim 1, wherein said second screen further comprises at least one icon (3027) that is selected to cause the display of a second sub-range of colors within said first color range. The method of claim 2, wherein each of said color ranges is represented on said first screen by a corresponding selection button. The method of claim 5, wherein each of said first and second sub-color ranges within said first color range comprises a set of a plurality of hues from said first color range. The method of claim 1, wherein upon selection of said first link (3034) a tab slides into a view presenting a plurality of selection buttons (3014 ... 3019), as each button corresponds to one of said ranges of colors of said plurality. The method of claim 1, wherein upon selection of said second link (3026) the plurality of colors selected in said first sub-range are moved and reduced in size, thereby creating space for the display of said plurality of shades of white (3032). The method of claim 9, wherein said plurality of shades of white (3032) comprises a 3x3 selection button matrix. The method of claim 1, wherein one of said plurality of gamuts comprises a neutral / black gamut and wherein upon selecting the neutral / black gamut, the first screen of a plurality of color gamuts is faded and replaced with a fourth screen in a sub-range of the neutral / black range. The method of claim 11 further including a color selection bar (3040) that is displayed within said neutral / black sub-range, by allowing said color selection bar the user to select the display of a second sub-range of neutral / black. The method of claim 1, wherein said plurality of ranges further includes a range of targets (3021) and further includes the step of responding to the user's selection of said range of targets to provide the user with a screen (3042 ) of a sub-range of whites. The method of claim 1, wherein said second display screen further allows user activation of a plurality of fine-tuning operations on said second display screen, said operations including brighter (3051), dimmer (3053 ), darker (3055) and lighter (3054). The method of claim 1, wherein said at least one fine-tuning operation comprises one of the following operations: brighter (3051), less bright (3053), darker (3055), and lighter (3054). 16. The method of claim 13, wherein said target sub-range display (3042) further includes a display of a target fine-tuning select button (3036). The method of claim 16 further comprising responding to the user's selection of said white fine-tuning select button by presenting the user with a fourth screen in which the user can activate at least one fine-tuning operation with respect to to a selected shade of white. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein said at least one fine-tuning operation comprises one of the following: heater (3061) or cooler (3062). The method of claim 11, further including a fine adjustment select button displayed with said fourth display of a sub-range of the neutral / black ranges. The method of claim 11, further including the step of responding to the user's selection of said neutral / black fine-tuning button by presenting the user with a fifth screen in which the user can activate at least one setting operation. fine adjustment of neutrals / blacks.